Big Freedia, the Queen of Bounce, has always lived life boldly, from her music to her vibrant presence in the LGBTQ+ community. Her personal life, especially her relationship with her longtime boyfriend Devon Hurst, has been a source of inspiration for fans who admire her authenticity. Let’s explore their love story, Freedia’s role as a cultural icon, and the recent heartbreaking loss that has touched her deeply.
Who Was Big Freedia’s Boyfriend, Devon Hurst?
Devon Hurst was Big Freedia’s partner of 20 years, a man who stood by her side through triumphs and challenges. They met in Houston around 2006, introduced by mutual friends after Hurricane Katrina forced Freedia to leave New Orleans. Freedia has shared that she fell in love with Devon at first sight, drawn to his openness about their relationship—a rarity compared to her past experiences with partners who were less public about their connection.
Their bond was special because Devon embraced Freedia fully, unafraid to be seen together or to meet her family. In a 2023 interview, Freedia described their love as the glue that kept them together for nearly two decades. This openness meant everything to Freedia, who had previously dated men who kept their relationships hidden.
What Happened to Devon Hurst?
On May 15, 2025, Big Freedia announced that Devon Hurst passed away at age 38 due to complications from diabetes. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Freedia shared her devastation, noting that Devon died peacefully, surrounded by his loving family. She wrote that he would be deeply missed by their community and asked for prayers and privacy during this time of grief.
The loss was a profound blow to Freedia, who described Devon as her partner of 20 years, survived by his mother, siblings, children, and nieces and nephews. Fans and fellow artists, including Monica and Faith Evans, flooded her post with messages of support, reflecting the impact Devon had on those around him. Freedia’s strength in sharing this loss publicly shows her commitment to authenticity, even in her darkest moments.
Did Big Freedia Marry Devon?
Big Freedia and Devon Hurst were engaged in 2017 but never married. During an episode of Freedia’s reality show, Big Freedia Bounces Back, the couple planned a wedding in New Orleans’ French Quarter. However, Freedia left Devon at the altar, overwhelmed by legal issues and her focus on her career, explaining, “If I don’t work, we don’t eat.”
Despite not marrying, their relationship endured. Freedia often referred to Devon as her husband in interviews and social media posts, like a 2021 Valentine’s Day message where she celebrated their love. Their commitment weathered challenges, including public ups and downs, proving their bond was built on resilience and mutual support.
How Old Was Devon Hurst?
Devon Hurst was 38 years old at the time of his passing in May 2025. Born around 1987, he was nine years younger than Freedia, who was born on January 28, 1978, making her 47 in 2025. Their age difference never seemed to impact their connection, as Freedia often spoke of their immediate chemistry and enduring love.
Devon’s youth made his death from diabetes complications particularly shocking to fans. Freedia’s tributes highlighted his vibrant spirit, noting how he brought joy to their community despite his health struggles. His age underscores the tragedy of losing someone so young who meant so much to Freedia.
Special Moments and Memories of Big Freedia and Devon
Freedia and Devon shared countless memories over their 20 years together, many captured on Big Freedia Bounces Back. One standout moment was Devon’s proposal, which he planned with Freedia’s Uncle Percy, showing his respect for her family. Though the wedding didn’t happen, the gesture reflected their deep bond.
Freedia often shared glimpses of their life on social media, like a 2021 birthday post for Devon where she wrote, “Wanna continue to wish for better years ahead.” These posts painted a picture of a couple who faced challenges—like cheating rumors and legal troubles—but always found their way back to each other, rooted in love.
Big Freedia’s Role as an LGBTQ+ Icon
Big Freedia, born Freddie Ross Jr., identifies as a gay man but embraces she/her pronouns, reflecting her fluid approach to gender and identity. As the Queen of Bounce, she’s brought New Orleans’ high-energy hip-hop subgenre to the mainstream, collaborating with artists like Beyoncé, Drake, and Lizzo. Her work on Beyoncé’s “Formation” and “Break My Soul” cemented her as a cultural force.
Beyond music, Freedia’s openness about her identity and relationships has made her a beacon for the LGBTQ+ community. She’s shown that love can thrive authentically, even in industries like hip-hop, which haven’t always embraced queer identities. Her reality show and autobiography, God Save the Queen Diva!, offer fans a window into her life, inspiring those who feel marginalized to live unapologetically.
Is Big Freedia a Millionaire?
While exact figures for Big Freedia’s net worth aren’t publicly confirmed, estimates place it between $1 million and $4 million, earned through her music, reality show, and business ventures. Her collaborations with major artists and her role as a cultural icon have boosted her financial success. However, Freedia’s focus has always been on her art and community, not just wealth.
Her entrepreneurial spirit shines in projects like her upcoming gospel album, set for release in summer 2025, and her work on the concept album In the Garden, where she plays God alongside artists like Billy Porter. These ventures show she’s building a legacy, not just a bank account.
How Much Does It Cost to Book Big Freedia?
Booking Big Freedia for an event typically costs between $20,000 and $50,000, depending on the event type, location, and performance requirements. Her high-energy performances, often featuring bounce music and dance, make her a sought-after act for festivals and pride events, like her scheduled appearance at Nashville Pride in June 2025. For precise pricing, contacting her team through her official website or booking agencies is the best approach.
Freedia’s ability to captivate audiences with her “big diva energy” ensures she’s worth every penny. Fans on platforms like Cameo praise her for personalized videos, where she brings the same charisma she’s known for on stage. Her performances are a celebration of joy and self-expression.
Freedia’s Advocacy and Cultural Impact
Freedia’s influence extends beyond music into advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community. Her visibility as a Black, queer artist from New Orleans challenges stereotypes and creates space for others to be themselves. She’s spoken about the importance of representation, saying her reality show was a platform to “keep it real” for her community.
Her makeup line, Bold Beats, launched with BLK/OPL, is gender-neutral and inclusive, designed for all skin tones and identities. This venture reflects her commitment to empowering everyone to express their best, bold selves. Freedia’s work continues to inspire fans to embrace their truth, just as she did with Devon.
Navigating Grief and Moving Forward
Freedia’s recent loss of Devon has left her heartbroken, yet her resilience shines through. Hours after announcing his passing, she posted a birthday tribute to her sister Crystal, showing her ability to balance grief with love for her family. This strength is a testament to her character and her faith, which she often credits for guiding her.
Fans have rallied around Freedia, sharing messages of condolence and admiration for her openness. Her ability to remain a pillar of her community, even in sorrow, underscores why she’s beloved. She’s not just a performer but a person who connects deeply with those who look up to her.
Freedia’s Current Projects and Future Plans
Despite her personal loss, Freedia continues to create. Her upcoming gospel album, teased with the single “Sunday Best” featuring Tamar Braxton, returns to her roots in church music. She’s also featured in In the Garden, a concept album reimagining the Adam and Eve story, set for release on May 9, 2025, through her label, Queen Diva.
These projects show Freedia’s determination to keep pushing forward, honoring Devon’s memory through her art. Her performances at events like Nashville Pride will bring her infectious energy to fans, reminding them of the joy she spreads. Freedia’s story is one of love, loss, and unstoppable spirit.
Conclusion
Big Freedia’s love story with Devon Hurst was a beautiful chapter in her life, marked by 20 years of devotion, challenges, and growth. Though Devon’s passing in May 2025 at age 38 was a heartbreaking loss, Freedia’s openness about her grief keeps their story alive. As a cultural icon and LGBTQ+ advocate, she continues to inspire with her music, business ventures, and unwavering authenticity, proving that love and resilience can light the way through even the darkest times.
